As the autumn leaves start to fall and the days grow shorter, nothing brings warmth and comfort to a family dinner table quite like a hearty bowl of Minestrone Soup. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, where creativity meets tradition in a robust medley of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s a dish that invites everyone to come together, share stories, and savor each spoonful of its goodness. Let’s dive into the heart of Italian cooking and make a Minestrone Soup that’s not just a meal, but a celebration of family and flavor.
Recipe Summary:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow squash, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the carrots and celery; cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the green beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to the soup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with rustic bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
Helpful Tips
- Make it Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Kale or spinach can be added for an extra nutrient boost.
Pairings
This Minestrone Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. For beverages, consider a crisp Italian white wine or a non-alcoholic sparkling lemonade to complement the flavors.
We hope you enjoy making this Minestrone Soup as much as we did at our family table. Don’t forget to share your creations with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging Zynahz on Instagram. We love seeing how our recipes bring joy to your home! Leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious updates. Follow us on social media to stay inspired. Happy cooking!
